victor: Alright, it seems that we have been neglecting a very important issue in the news these past few weeks. I am talking about the death of the pope of course. What makes the man such an influencial figure in our society? Why did 3 million people, catholics and otherwise, travel from around to world to hold a vigil during the final days of the pope's life? One could argue that the importance of the pope lies in the number of followers of the Catholic faith which he led. I believe that Catholicism is one of the largest christian denominations (yes, catholics are christians)in the world but does sheer number justify the impact his death had on the world? He has also done extensive work throughout the world to patch shaky relations between governments, the secular and spiritual, and people's of different cultures. His work in Africa and influence over the leaders of the major powers in the world have made him a pivatol figure in world politics but often, work alone dosn't acrue such a following. Yet, one also has to take into account that he is one of the longest reigning popes in history. Perhaps its the combination of these three things that have made him such an important and influencial figure in our world but it is for sure that he will be missed.  ¶ 3:10 PM